The 7 Best Scenic Overlooks in the South
From mountaintop boardwalks to drive-up vistas, these easily accessible scenic overlooks in the South offer some of the region’s most breathtaking views — no strenuous hikes required. Image: Facebook / Grandfather Mountain
The South is full of jaw-dropping landscapes — and you don’t always need a long hike to enjoy them. From the misty heights of the Smoky Mountains to sweeping valleys and waterfalls, these scenic overlooks in the South offer unforgettable views with minimal effort.
Clingmans Dome
- Location: Great Smoky Mountains, TN/NC
- Highlight: This is the highest point in the Smokies at 6,643 feet with a paved 0.5-mile trail to a stone observation tower offering 360 degrees of mountain views.
- Tips: The trail is steep but paved; bring layers as it’s cooler at elevation. The visitor center has restrooms.
- Closest city: About 45 minutes from Gatlinburg, TN
Lookout Mountain
- Location: Chattanooga, TN
- Highlight: The mountain features scenic overlooks, including Rock City’s famous “See Seven States” viewpoint and gardens.
- Tips: Parking is available near Rock City, and a ticket is required for Rock City attractions, but some overlooks are free. The best time to visit is sunset.
- Closest city: 15 minutes from downtown Chattanooga
Chimney Rock
- Location: Chimney Rock State Park, NC
- Highlight: Take an elevator or short hike to a dramatic overlook 315 feet above Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure.
- Tips: The elevator has an admission fee of $17, and trails are available for hiking. Spend some time exploring the nearby restaurants and shops in Lake Lure.
- Closest city: About 40 minutes from Asheville, NC
Grandfather Mountain
- Location: Linville, NC
- Highlight: Step foot on a mile-high swinging bridge with spectacular Blue Ridge Mountain views and walk the boardwalk trails at the summit.
- Tips: There is an entry fee required (approximately $20). The weather can change quickly, so be sure to check the conditions before visiting.
- Closest city: Roughly 45 minutes from Boone, NC
Skyline Drive
- Location: Shenandoah National Park, VA
- Highlight: This 105-mile scenic drive features 75+ overlooks showing the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley.
- Tips: The park’s entrance fee is $30 per vehicle for seven days. The best times to visit are when you can see fall foliage or spring blooms. Facilities and picnic spots are available at many overlooks.
- Closest city: About an hour and a half from Washington, D.C.
Caesars Head State Park
- Location: Greenville County, SC
- Highlight: This easily reached overlook has paved paths that overlook Raven Cliff Falls and panoramic mountain views.
- Tips: There is no entrance fee. The nearby visitor center has info and restrooms. Visit the overlook for sunrise or sunset photos.
- Closest city: Approximately 45 minutes from Greenville, SC
Mount Magazine
- Location: Paris, AR
- Highlight: At 2,753 feet, this is the highest peak in Arkansas. Overlooks are accessible by car and offer valley and river views.
- Tips: The state park offers cabins, camping, and picnic areas. The weather can be cool and windy at the summit.
- Closest city: Around an hour and a half from Fort Smith, AR
Happy exploring!
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Kate Feinberg
Kate Feinberg is a professional writer based in Nashville. She has more than 14 years of freelance writing experience covering travel, wellness, and lifestyle. A certified meditation teacher, RYT-200 yoga instructor, and integrative nutrition health coach, she brings a strong wellness perspective to her work. Kate is also a marathon runner and the creator of a plant-based food blog, Chef Kate F, where she shares nourishing recipes and mindful living tips. When she’s not writing, you’ll likely find her on the golf course, exploring new destinations, or combining both with golf-focused travel. She enjoys lake life on Percy Priest Lake.